Signed THE LIFE OF ESTHER DE BERDT 1853 William Reed 1st George Washington For Sale

The Life of Esther de Berdt, Afterward Esther Reed of Pennsylvania by William Reed (Esther Reed's grandson). 1853 first edition. The book provides a history of Esther de Berdt'smarriage to Joseph Reed,travels from England to America, and activities during the American Revolution. Her husbandbecame an aide to George Washington and ultimately rose to the position of Adjutant of the Army and was simultaneously elected President (aka Governor) of Pennsylvania, making Esther the First Lady of Pennsylvania.During the war, Esther carried on a correspondence with George Washington with regard to assisting the suffering Continental Army, and was instrumental in organizing and operating the Ladies Association of Philadelphia, which raised funds--quite successfully--for the welfare of the troops. This copy is inscribed by the author to "M__ H____ C. Appleton - [Illegible] - The Author [Illegible] Aug. 26 1853." There is also an apparent signature of Wm. Reed, but this appears to have been added later, likely by another hand.Spine faded. Some damage to very top of spine. Rubbing to edges/corners. Bookplate of the New England Historic Genealogical Society on pastedown. Pencil writing on FFEP (in addition to author inscription). Embossed stamp on title page and one other text page (that I found). A little scattered foxing, mostly in prelims. Binding tight and sturdy. See photos.